Financing of Churches in Italy - di David Durisotto

A small look into the financing systems of Churches in Europe shows that in almost all states there are forms of support to denominations, which can be expressed in allocation of a certain sum or in specific tax facilitations1. This is the result of exceeding the old separatist principle for which in any way the State may not contribute to the economic needs of denominations; second, it stems from a favorable attitude toward Churches and religion2. Even the ex-communist countries start new relationships with churches, almost all states provide new ways of financing them, usually through a direct support to their social and religious activities3. In Italy, Art. 3 of Constitution requires the State to remove all economic and social obstacles that, by limiting the freedom and equality of citizens, prevent full individual development and the participation of all workers in the political, economic, and social organization of the country. (Continua)